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Bone Fracture

Bone fractures can vary widely in severity, ranging from small cracks to complete breaks that cause the bone to move out of its normal position. Whether you’re a student-athlete or an active adult, understanding the different types of fractures and their treatment is essential for a full recovery.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our team offers advanced sports medicine care across our convenient locations in Northeastern Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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Types of Fractures

Bone fractures can be categorized in several ways based on the severity and characteristics of the injury. Here are the most common types:

  • Simple (closed) fractures: The bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin.
  • Compound (open) fractures: The broken bone pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
  • Displaced fractures: The broken bone pieces are misaligned and may require surgical intervention.
  • Stress fractures: These are caused by repetitive forces and are often seen in athletes. 
  • Comminuted fractures: The bone is shattered into several pieces, often requiring complex treatment.
  • Greenstick fractures: Incomplete fractures, common in children, where the bone bends but doesn’t fully break.
 

Fractures may also be classified according to their pattern. The fracture pattern might suggest a specific type of trauma, such as a twisting injury.

Different bones may also be classified according to the area of the breaks. For example, metacarpal fractures can be classified into three different zones.

A man with a cast on his foot to help treat a bone fracture at the doctor in Chardon, Ohio.

Causes of Fractures

Fractures occur when the force applied to the bone exceeds its strength. Common causes include:

  • Trauma: Falls, car accidents, or sports injuries often result in fractures, especially displaced fractures or compound fractures.
  • Repetitive forces: Activities like running or jumping can cause a stress fracture, which occur gradually over time.
  • Weak bones: Conditions like osteoporosis weaken bones, making them more susceptible to broken bones from minor impacts.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bone Fracture?

A bone fracture typically presents with immediate pain, swelling, and bruising at the fracture site. Other symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty moving the injured area
  • Visible deformity if the bone is misaligned
  • Tenderness or swelling over the bone and surrounding soft tissues
  • Numbness or tingling if other soft tissues like nerves are damaged

In some cases, a person may continue to use the injured limb, especially in the case of stress fractures, where the symptoms may be more subtle.

How is a Fractured Bone Diagnosed?

When diagnosing a bone fracture, physicians typically begin with a physical exam of the injured area. Imaging tests are crucial to confirm the presence of a fracture and assess the extent of the damage. These may include:

  • X-rays: The most common imaging method to view the fracture and its location.
  • Bone scan: Useful in detecting stress fractures that may not be visible on X-rays.
  • MRI or CT scans: These can provide detailed images of both bones and soft tissues to detect more complex injuries.

Treatment Sports Medicine Offers

In sports medicine, fracture treatment is highly personalized based on the type and severity of the fracture. Treatments may include:

  • Immobilization: Casting or bracing the fracture site to prevent movement while the bone heals.
  • External fixation: Metal pins or screws are inserted to hold the bone in place. These pins are connected to a bar outside the skin to stabilize the fracture.
  • Internal fixation: Metal plates, screws, or rods are surgically placed inside the body to hold the bone in place.
  • Physical therapy: After the bone has healed, therapy is essential to restore function to the muscles, joints, and other soft tissues around the injury.
 

Surgical intervention is often required for complex fractures, including those with misalignment or comminuted fractures.

Recovering from a Bone Fracture

Recovery from a broken bone varies depending on the type and location of the fracture. A simple fracture may take a few weeks to heal, while more complex fractures, such as comminuted fractures, could take several months. Recovery phases typically include:

  1. Immobilization: To allow the bone to set and heal.
  2. Physical therapy: To regain strength and mobility in the injured area.
  3. Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
 

Our specialists ensure that your treatment and rehabilitation are tailored to your unique needs, helping you return to your daily activities or sports as soon as possible.

Get Back in the Game

If you’re suffering from a fractured bone or a sports-related injury, the sports medicine specialists at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties are here to help. With personalized treatment plans and advanced care, we’ll guide you through every step of your recovery.

Visit one of our four locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, or Middlefield, OH, today to start your healing journey!

Medically reviewed by Michael J. Kellis, D.O., FAOASM

Our Specialties

  1. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/fractures-broken-bones/
  2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173312#diagnosis-and-treatment
  3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stress-fractures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354063

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